Chrome Fire Extinguishers

Claire Fuller - Workplace Law Network
Online advisor - 32 posts

Hi Richard,

We have a white paper called "Portable Fire Extinguishers: to use or not to use?" available for Premium Members to download which might help. Go to http://www.workplacelaw.net/news/display/id/10080 to find out more.

Richard Steel
Member - 3 posts

Thanks Claire

David Sharp - Workplace Law Network
Online advisor - 119 posts

Richard - Changes to the colour of fire extinguishers were one of the first things we reported on at Workplace Law back in 1997 (showing my age here). Never been too sure on the silver units, but I'll certainly take a look into it now you've prompted me.

Clive Raybould
Member - 1 post

Clive Raybould - Fire Safety Consultant - Advisor to Workplace Law

Stainless steel fire extinguishers are not red, therefore they cannot claim to be manufactured in accordance with BS EN3. BS EN 3-7:2004, Part 16.1 requires 95% of the body to be red).

By law, extinguishers must have the CE Mark (Pressure Equipment Directive). BS EN3 is, technically, a recommendation, so you could choose to ignore it.
Manufacturers/sellers claim that the chrome extinguishers are made to the same standards as a BSEN3 extinguisher, so it should not matter.
Chrome extinguishers may be challenged by some enforcers. It is a matter of choice as everything is your choice!
My personal advice is to have red extinguishers and ensure that they are visible. Chrome extinguishers that can blend in, do not make sense to me personally. If you do choose to use the chrome extinguishers, then you may need to review the signage to ensure that the extinguisher will be seen in an emergency.

Chris Johnson
Member - 5 posts

Hi All, just a few words that may help.

Some Stainless Steel Fire Extinguishers are painted red. However, be aware that thousands of American units have been re-called due to failure. The dip tubes have been found to be defective. So if servicing, have a look.
Before the new regulation, it was advised that any non-red extinguishers should have a red backboard or surface to make them stand out, but I fully agree with Clive Rayboult, this is dangerous.
If it is decided to install this equipment within a Fire Risk Assessment, a "Responsible" or "Competent" person should ensure this is with the agreement of their insurance terms, or could be void.
I have completed fire surveys, only to see the "trendy" owners use my advice, but put (Put, on floor) polished Stainless Steel or Chrome AFFFoam (water based units) near high electrical risks, with Black Printing on. Looks nice when propping open a Fire Door, but can you see the clear dangers? Kindest Regards Chris :)